Stair Lifts

Personal stair lifts make it possible for people to remain independent and mobile in their own home after climbing the stairs becomes unsafe. Stair lifts benefit those who may have balance problems or limited mobility.

Stair Lift Basics

A stair lift is a chair that runs on a track and is attached to a staircase. They are a helpful alternative to installing floor lifts into a home. Some stair lifts feature a swiveling feature, allowing the user to easily get on or off of the lift. Many have a remote control to activate the lifting, which can be convenient for the user.

Choosing a Stair Lift

There are many important features to consider when shopping for a stair lift. Look for a reputable company that offers a lifetime warranty on their product and reliable customer service. After selecting the right stair lift company, it's important to choose a model that will suit the needs of the individual who will use it.

The first consideration is drive type. There are four main drive types for stair lifts. The rack and pinion drive is the safest and quietest mechanism on the market today.

Next, evaluate the power supply that comes with the stair lift. It is recommended that consumers seek a stair lift that is not powered by an AC adaptor. AC powered stair lifts are known to be unreliable and more difficult to install.

Keep in mind that the length and shape of the staircase in the home will be an important factor in choosing a stair lift. There are stair lift models that are made to adapt to curved staircases and steep pitch staircases.

There are several special options that can be incorporated into a stair lift. There are safety features that can be included, such as seatbelts and motion sensors. There are also models that can be folded away when not in use. This allows the staircase to be clear for use by other members of the family. Stair lifts can come with custom fabric chairs to coordinate with the décor of the home.

Purchasing a Stair Lift

Many people think that installing a stair lift in their home is out of their financial means. However, Housing Repair and Disabled Facility Grants can be obtained to help with the funding. The drawback of getting grant is that the process can sometimes take months and up to a year. There are some charities that can assist with funding and installing a stair lift. Organizations like the Disabled Living Foundation can help connect homeowners with monetary resources to install a stair lift.

By Courtney Ramirez